Osaka: HH Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, the Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth, and Chairman of the Main Committee for Oman’s Participation in Expo 2025 Osaka, attended an Omani cultural evening. This event took place at the Osaka Museum of Modern Art as part of the activities of the Omani Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, celebrating the fusion of Omani and Japanese cultures.
The cultural evening showcased an art exhibition featuring twelve digital artworks created by skilled Omani artists specializing in digital media. These artists represented various artistic movements, with their works reflecting Oman’s cultural heritage, future ambitions, and extensive connections, skillfully merging digital painting techniques with traditional Omani elements. The artworks displayed a variety of contemporary styles and patterns, allowing the artists to convey their identities and perspectives while capturing elements of Omani heritage, nature, and traditions in innovative ways that blend cultural history with modern creativity.
The exhibition delved into themes such as life, innovation, interactive visual experiences, visual memory, and Omani identity, with several pieces aligning with the objectives of "Oman Vision 2040" and the lasting impact of Omani culture. It underscored the vibrancy of Oman’s art scene and its adoption of new technologies in artistic expression, attracting significant interest from both Japanese and international visitors.
Additionally, the evening featured musical performances by Omani youth, celebrating the beauty of cross-cultural artistry.
During the event, HH Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said also engaged with a group of Omani students studying at Japanese universities. He listened to their experiences and aspirations, reaffirming Oman’s dedication to supporting its youth and enhancing their involvement in knowledge, research, and innovation. He expressed his best wishes for their success and achievements.
At the end of the evening, the Commissioner General of Oman’s Pavilion presented a commemorative gift to HH Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said—a Japanese sword known as a "Katana." This cultural and artistic artifact represents the harmony between beauty and functionality in Japanese philosophy, embodying the legacy of the samurai and the age-old craft of sword making. Crafted by master artisan Gassan Sadakazu, it is celebrated as a "living treasure" and epitomizes the zenith of Japanese swordsmithing, showcasing artistic ingenuity and family traditions passed down through generations. The sword serves as a vibrant testament to Japanese culture, encapsulating the values of discipline and innovation that are fundamental to traditional Japanese society.
Sayyid Said bin Sultan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth for Culture and Commissioner General of Oman’s Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, remarked: "This evening strengthens the enduring connections and cultural exchanges between Oman and Japan, highlighting that art and music are universal languages that can unite nations across vast distances."
He further stated: "This evening symbolizes a civilizational dialogue between two ancient cultures—Omani and Japanese—that both cherish beauty, uphold their identities, and strive for sustainability and innovation." He pointed out that the involvement of young Omani artists showcasing contemporary digital works signifies a significant advancement in Oman’s creative landscape, illustrating how "Oman Vision 2040" is being actualized through the fusion of heritage and modernity. He emphasized that culture is crucial for sustainable development and enhancing Oman’s global presence, with such initiatives promoting Omani culture on the international stage and fostering new opportunities for dialogue and mutual understanding.
The event saw the participation of Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, the Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of the Main Committee for Oman’s Participation in Expo 2025 Osaka. Other notable attendees included Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rowas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Dr. Mohammed bin Said Al Busaidi, Oman’s Ambassador to Japan. The gathering also featured various diplomatic, academic, and cultural representatives, along with delegates from participating institutions and supporting Omani companies.
